Concrete hairline cracks may seem insignificant, but they can indicate underlying structural issues. Here's why they're more sinister than you think:

AESTHETICS

Hairline cracks can mar the appearance of your painted concrete facade, especially if they're extensive, leading to a weathered, old look. Additionally, they may exhibit white efflorescent blooms, more noticeable on darker colors due to the contrast. Efflorescence occurs when soluble salts, like lime or calcium hydroxide formed during the hydration reaction of Portland cement, are transported by water to the surface of concrete. There, they react with carbon dioxide from the air, forming insoluble calcium carbonate and water, resulting in the characteristic white deposits.

THERMAL/SEISMIC STRESSES

Hairline cracks in concrete, common in regions like the Philippines prone to seismic activity, with around twenty earthquakes daily recorded by the Philippine Seismic Network.  Despite minimal seasonal temperature changes, temperature fluctuations still impact concrete expansion and contraction. Over time, these movements and seismic activity can lead to water seepage through capillaries formed by hairline cracks in walls.

WATER INTRUSION

Water seepage, often triggered by heavy rainfall, occurs when water infiltrates through small holes, hairline cracks or porous materials. Factors such as clogged drains, structural damage, or poor construction can exacerbate this issue, manifesting in signs like deteriorated indoor air quality, musty odors, blistered paint, efflorescence, watermark stains, and rusting of metal components. Promptly addressing water seepage is essential to prevent escalating damage resulting in big expenses.

MOLD/MILDEW

Mold and mildew aren't just cosmetic issues; they can trigger allergies, sneezing, throat and nose irritation, runny noses, and even asthma. Their reproductive microspores and mycotoxins pose health risks to you and your family.  Water leaking into electrical systems can cause fires, while rotting materials attract pests like termites, rodents, and insects into your home.

STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY

Water seepage can undermine foundation stability and reduce property value. Corrosion of reinforcement bars due to water infiltration through hairline cracks can rust, lead to rusted metal expansion, concrete cracking, and a cycle of further deterioration known as spalling.

THE DYNAMIC DUO IN WATERPROOFING PROTECTION

Preventing water seepage can be achieved using premium waterproofing products. 

Universal AquaShield is a flexible cementitious coating compound designed to waterproof concrete by having water ponding resistance. Unlike traditional cement, it remains flexible and adheres well to old concrete surfaces, eliminating the need for roughening during replastering.

Universal AquaGuard on the other hand, is an elastomeric product with crack-bridging properties. The crack-bridging property refers to the ability of a material, such as elastomeric paint, to stretch and cover cracks in concrete without breaking or cracking itself. When concrete develops hairline cracks, traditional paint coatings may crack along with it, leaving openings for water to enter. However, elastomeric paint remains flexible and stretches to form a bridge over the crack, effectively sealing it and preventing water entry.  Together, these products provide comprehensive waterproofing solutions for homes helping to protect against water seepage and damage.

LITERATURE SOURCE

1. concreteconstruction.net - “What Causes Efforescence and How do You Remove It”

2.https://climateknowledgeportal.worldbank.org/country/philippines/climate-data-historical -“Philippines - Climatology - Climate Change Knowledge Portal”

3.Austin Werner, “Water Seepage: What it is and How You Can Prevent It”

4. https://www.health.ny.gov/publications/7287/ - “Mold and Your Home: What You Need To Know”
5. https://iise.kenken.go.jp>net>shiva>update>”Seismic - Observation of the Philippines”